Healthy Living May 2015

SET YOUR MIND AT EASE

Keys to understanding mental illness

CHILDREN INTO ADULTS

PART IV : It Takes A Village series

MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGHS

Giant leaps for womankind

The happiest moment

Four local women experience the joys of motherhood through adoption

TOP 5% FOR PATIENT SAFETY NATIONWIDE.

Recognition for Leesburg Regional Medical Center continues to grow. HealthGradesTM has awarded the hospital its 2014 Patient Safety Excellence Award. The distinction places Leesburg Regional within the top 5% of all hospitals in the U.S. for its excellent performance in safeguarding patients from serious, potentially preventable complications during their hospital stays. And while we’re undeniably proud of the recognition, we’re most proud to provide our community with the highest quality of care, year after year.

LeesburgRegional.org

► Exclusively uses muscle sparing techniques on ALL primary joint replacements

► Makoplasty/resurfacing same day surgery

► Perioperative pain control system consistently yields low pain control scores well above the national average

► Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

I’ve developed a proprietary approach to shoulder joint problems that involves an integrated combination of minimally invasive surgical procedures, pharmaceutical intervention and pain management. This results in faster healing times, fewer complications and less pain.

— Donald Perry MD

Swelling, discoloration and pain in the lower extremity, all symptoms of Venous Insufficiency, are serious indicators of a potentially limb-threatening, even life-threatening condition. Samantha had all three of them and missing a dance at her daughter’s wedding was the least of her worries. ICE was there to help. Our vein care team located the four damaged veins that were causing her problems and treated them. Six months later, Samantha got rave reviews for her fox trot at her baby’s wedding.

At Promise Hospital, our nursing team is dedicated to meeting the needs of every patient by delivering quality care through eff ective communication and evidence-based practices. By establishing a level of trust and transparency, our compassionate staff of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses helps each patient feel safe and comfortable. But our nursing team is never content to rest on our laurels. We’re working to achieve the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Pathway to Excellence designation, which recognizes excellence in nursing practices. This designation will help our nurses become even more proficient in their field AND RESULT IN AN EVEN HIGHER LEVEL OF PATIENT SATISFACTION…

SCAN THIS CODE WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PROMISE HOSPITAL!

FRONT (left to right): Dawn Walczak, Jill Nadeau BACK (left to right): Jocelyn Eslinger, Jan McCoy and Eva Ball

TENTS

FEATURING

// LIVE FOR THE MOMENT

They never expected to hear the words “Happy Mothers Day.” WRITER: JAMES COMBS

// BIONIC WOMEN: BREAKTHROUGHS IN MEDICINE

Fantasy becomes fact in Digital Age of Healthcare. WRITER: SHANNON TIBBETTS

PART 4 OF OUR SERIES EXAMINING FOSTER CARE // BECOMING INDEPENDENT

An 18th birthday brings a lot of changes for a foster child. Luckily, there are programs to help make successful transitions into adulthood. WRITER: MARY ANN DESANTIS

ON THE COVER PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

IN EVERY ISSUE

WRITER:

WRITER:

HEALTHYSPIRIT

60,000 POUNDS

That’s how many pounds of food you will consume in your lifetime. Thats the weight of about six

HEALTHYFINANCE

CREDIT CARDS

WRITER:

ASK DAVE

74 MAKING A NEST EGG

WRITER: DAVE RAMSEY

63% of people who begin working at age 25 end up financially dependent on either social security or friends, family and charity.

WRITER: RUTH ANN BYRD

In the early Greek Empire,

red lipstick signaled that a woman was a prostitute.

LORI’S FIGHT

I stupidly posted my latest kidney stones attack on Facebook before I realized how lame I am and deleted it.

My “big news” was online for a few hours, just long enough for Cousin Lori to see it and comment, “I’m so sorry. I know how painful that is. Get feeling better soon.”

I felt so ashamed. I’m complaining about minuscule calcium deposits while Lori’s at war with metastatic stage 4 breast cancer.

She got the news in the fall of 2013, the day before her 46th birthday.

Lori hasn’t wasted a minute on self-pity since the diagnosis. She’s remained upbeat and enthusiastic through 10 rounds of chemo, followed by hormone therapy, followed by a hysterectomy in January and a lumpectomy in February. Radiation is next.

Her body has been ravaged from outside as well as from within.

She should be exhausted. She should be discouraged. She is neither.

Lori’s faith in God remains strong, her trust in her physicians unwavering and her love of family continues to be bigger than any disease.

She refuses to be denied another 25 years with her rock, John. She will not miss the birthdays, job promotions and awards that await Erika, Jenny and Matthew. She will live to be a grandmother.

You’d never know she was sick if she wasn’t bald. Lori remains full of life; raising money for cancer research, traveling with her husband, working when she can, visiting her devoted children, donating blood for researchers, working out at the gym … and

loving everyone in her world, even distant cousins with stomach pains.

Lori simply will not complain.

I often think of this December 2013 post from her blog: “This is my 6th ‘rough’ weekend, as I have come to think of them. I was told before they injected that first dose of poison into my veins, that I would feel bad on days 3,4 & 5 … All the “resting” gives me time to think! I am NOT complaining, as I have been quite fortunate!! I basically just feel tired, a little shaky and the slightest discomfort in my bones from the $12,000 Neulasta shot they give me the day after my chemo treatments. So far, the chemo is working, so I am VERY fortunate! I haven’t had to cut off one or both of my breasts, or make the difficult decisions about reconstruction and the surgeries and pain that go along with that.”

Sixteen months later, the tumors are a bit smaller than they were on that “rough” weekend. And Lori still feels fortunate.

I’m so glad she feels that way. But Lori, dear, we’re the fortunate ones. Those of us who love you are so very fortunate because you love us back.

Get better Cuz.

Gary Corsair Executive Editor gary@akersmediagroup.com

Comments or questions for our Editor? We want to provide you with the best quality publication, so your feedback is vital.

“I felt so ashamed.

I’m complaining about minuscule calcium deposits while Lori’s at war with metastatic stage 4 breast cancer.”

Corsa

From left to right: Lori Impagliatelli, Gwen Corsair, Gary Corsair, John Impagliatelli.

EVERY WOMAN CAN BE A MOM

May is such a wonderful month. Flowers are blooming and temperatures are rising. It’s a beautiful month and therefore a perfect month to celebrate women.

Mother’s Day is very special to me for many reasons. Of course, I love my mother very much and have wonderful memories of her love and care for me as I was growing up. But even more important to me is what I’ve learned by being a mother myself.

KENDRA AKERS publisher/editor-in-chief kendra@akersmediagroup.com

DOUG AKERS vice president doug@akersmediagroup.com

JAMIE EZRA MARK chief creative officer jamie@akersmediagroup.com

SABRINA CICERI associate publisher sabrina@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL // DESIGN // PHOTOGRAPHY

GARY CORSAIR executive editor gary@akersmediagroup.com

JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com

KATIE LEWIS staff writer katie@akersmediagroup.com

MATTHEW GAULIN staff photographer matt@akersmediagroup.com

RHEYA TANNER designer rheya@akersmediagroup.com

STEVEN J. CODRARO creative director steve@akersmediagroup.com

JOE DELEON senior art director joe@akersmediagroup.com

JOSH CLARK senior designer josh@akersmediagroup.com

MICHAEL GAULIN production director michael@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS//PHOTOGRAPHERS

RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS RUTH ANN BYRD MARY ANN DESANTIS SCOTT PERKINS

DAVE RAMSEY SHANNON TIBBETTS RON VANDEVANDER MONISHA VASA, M.D.

SALES // MARKETING

TIM MCRAE vice president of sales and marketing tim@akersmediagroup.com

MIKE STEGALL senior account representative mike@akersmediagroup.com

MELANIE MELVIN director of client services melanie@akerscreative.com

These are the children — birthed, fostered and adopted — that make Mother’s Day special for me.

I used to be cautious of saying Happy Mother’s Day to just anyone because sometimes I would encounter someone who would come back with “I can’t have children” or some other comment that made me feel like I said something wrong.

There is so much hope for women who want to have a child. Being a mother who has birthed children, adopted children and fostered children, I can tell you that the love you feel for the child you are holding is the same no matter how that child came into your life.

HEIDI RESSLER account representative heidi@akersmediagroup.com

DAVID COTÉ account representative david@akersmediagroup.com

DEB MATLOCK account coordinator deb@akerscreative.com

ADMINISTRATION

AUBREY AKERS office assistant aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

SAMANTHA KURK receptionist samantha@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

SCOTT HEGG distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

how much joy they

In this issue, you will read a heart-touching story about four local women who thought they would never hear the words Happy Mother’s Day — and you’ll see howmuchjoythey have in their life through adoption.

Sabrina Ciceri Associate Publisher Sabrina@akersmediagroup.com

Comments or questions for our publisher?

Our goal is to provide you with the best quality publication, so your feedback is vital.

LEFT UNTREATED, MINOR ACHES CAN TURN INTO A MAJOR PAIN.

As an orthopaedic surgeon and joint specialist, I know how debilitating the pain from repetitive movements of joints, muscles and tendons can be. Whether pain is due to overuse or to a sudden twist, turn or trauma, left untreated it can lead to long-term problems.

I specialize in joint replacement and restoration procedures designed to have knees, shoulders and hips working like new again. I am experienced in the latest and best treatments, including traditional and anterior-approach hip replacement, total and partial knee replacement, revision of failed knee surgeries, arthroscopy and more.

When you’re ready to get back to enjoying life without pain, give me a call.

MARIO JOHN, D.

MD raineed

urgeon

Fellowship Tri d Orthopaedic Su

Joints can wear out long before you do.

A BEACON OF HOPE

When we last visited Chelsea Eubank in May 2010, she had just graduated from Beacon College with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies.

Today, she remains part of the Beacon family as director of alumni/parent relations and director of regional development. That’s a point of pride for Chelsea, who says the

lsea, who says the

Check out the Healthy Living May 2010 issue at www. lakehealthyliving. com to read more about Chelsea.

GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH

This Mother’s Day, give the greatest gift of all — one that will help Mom remain healthy, energetic and vibrant.

DARK CHOCOLATE CONTAINS ANTIOXIDANTS THAT ELIMINATE DAMAGING FREE RADICALS THAT CAUSE HEART DISEASE AND OTHER ILLNESSES. JUST CHOOSE DARK CHOCOLATE WITH LESS SUGAR AND FEWER CALORIES.

college was instrumental in shaping her life.

“My four years at Beacon College were absolutely wonderful,” says Chelsea, who was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a child. “I made a big transformation as a person during my years at Beacon, and now I get to see students make a similar transformation.”

A GET-FIT BASKET COULD CONTAIN A HEARTHEALTHY COOKBOOK, PEDOMETER, A YOGA DVD OR EVEN A NEW WORKOUT OUTFIT.

A GIFT CERTIFICATE SO SHE CAN TRY A YOGA, PILATES OR PERSONAL TRAINING CLASS. PAY HER WAY TO A FEW CLASSES OR PRIVATE SESSIONS SO SHE CAN DISCOVER WHETHER SHE ENJOYS IT.

SOURCES: health.com/health/gallery/0,,20485122_ last,00.htmlwellbridge.com/fit-like-that/10-healthygift-ideas-for-mothers-day-

Dr. Yvonne Pennington with Chelsea Eubanks

“I was walking a mile by the end of the week and by week three I was riding my bike. Now I’m living my life again!”

MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED!

Over 30,000 patients treated & 13,000 surgeries performed.

DR. FRANK BONO + DR. JAMES RONZO BOARD CERTIFIED, FELLOWSHIP TRAINED

BY THE NUMBERS

DID YOU KNOW?

TIME FOR THE TRUTH

Dr. Michael Hill became Lake County’s first neurosurgeon when he opened Lake County Neurosurgical and Spinal Institute in 2001. Today, he performs minimally invasive spine surgery, such as laminectomies and discectomies, as well as brain surgery. He is board-certified by e eca oado NeurologicalSurgeries.

the American Board of Neurological Surgeries

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

During your lifetime, you will consume approximately 60,000 pounds of food. That’s the weight of about six elephants.

million — the number of adults with a mental illness in 2010. Mental illness is more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease

million — the number of Americans who do not receive adequate treatment for serious mental illness.

m d

2 020

45.9 8 31.3

m is d

the expected year when major depressive illness s the leading cause of disability in the world among women and children

2/3

the number of Americans with mental illness who lead productive lives

The Real Truth About Health Conference is being held May 22-31 at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando. The free 10-day conference is the nation’s largest health, nutrition and environmental conference. It features more than 30 world-class authors and presenters, including Dr. Brian Clement, author of LifeForce, Dr. Helen Caldicott, author of Crisis Without End and Dr. Hans Diehl, author of Health Power

million — the number of American adults who received mental health services within the past 12 months

A TIME TO REMEMBER

What is Memorial Day? To some people, it means nothing more than a day off work and barbecuing outside among family and friends. Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is a day to remember men and women who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. One longstanding tradition on this day is to place an American flag on the grave of a loved one

“Humanity is at the brink of extinction or transformation,” says Dr. Brian Clement, co-director of the Hippocrates Health Institute. “The Real Truth About Health Conference will offer viable options for change from the world’s leading authorities. They will raise your awareness and inspire your heart with their passionate, missionoriented messages. Be there so you can transform and help the rest of humanity in doing the same.”

For more information, call 516.921.1417 or visit therealtruthabouthealth conference.com.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month so we decided to share some numbers about mental health in the U.S

High-Tech Health Care

A group of trained surgeons performing minimally invasive surgeries with the use of robotic technologies.

Da Vinci robot features a magnified 3D HD vision system and special instruments that bend and rotate equal to the human wrist. The features enable our surgeons to operate with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control, through a minimally invasive incision.

One of the many procedures performed is the treatment for GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). The most common signs and symptoms of GERD are frequent acid reflux and heartburn.

For more information regarding this minimally invasive procedure, along with other surgical procedures performed by the group, please visit our website www.MidFloridaSurgical.com

MARATHON FOR MOTHER

Leah Ginn always hated running. But her motivation for competing in her first half-marathon was understandable.

“It had been a long time since I had done something for the first time,” says Leah, a 30-year-old Lady Lake resident. “Plus, I like pushing myself outside my comfort zone.”

Leah, who is director of operations at MVP Sports Club in The Villages, began training for the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon in July 2014. She had a wonderful training partner— her mother, Karen Danesky. Karen provided support by running with Leah and walking beside her on a treadmill.

“My mom was not a big exerciser, but she was always there to encourage me.”

Karen planned to be at the finish line of the marathon. Unfortunately, she died of a heart attack in September 2014 at age 54.

“I took two weeks off running because every time I ran I thought about my mom,” Leah says. “I even considered not competing in the race.”

Ultimately, though, Leah completed the 13.2-mile race held last november. Her mom’s indomitable spirit helped propel her to finish the race in 2 hours, 42 minutes.

“The last two miles were the hardest. My legs hurt and my hip flexors hurt. I was cold and wet. But I kept thinking about my mom, and there’s no doubt she carried me to the finish line.”

COPING WITH THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE “Find something that soothes your soul. I also recommend for people to work on themselves and become healthier. That’s why I eat healthy and exercise. I don’t want my mother’s death to be in vain.”

LEAH OFFERS HELPFUL MARATHON TRAINING TIPS:

1) Conduct research to learn how to properly train. The website Runners World is a great resource.

2) Get plenty of sleep.

3) Stay hydrated.

4) Properly fuel your body.

5) Get fitted for shoes. You need proper equipment just like for baseball or any other sport.

6) Set realistic goals when you begin training. If you rarely run, start with small distances and gradually build up from there.

GOALS LEAH WOULD LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH BEFORE TURNING 40:

• Ride in a hot-air balloon

• Ride a bicycle to see various California vineyards

• Buy a house

• Earn a master’s degree

• Scuba dive in open water

• Ride a gondola in Venice

• See the Aurora Borealis.

• Visit Las Vegas

• Visit the Grand Canyon

FORE on ree water Venice realis anyon

WRITER: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: MATTHEW GAULIN

PHOTOS: Shutterstock.com and provided

WHAT’S (HIC) CAUSING (HIC) THESE?

one time or another, most of

have had the hiccups — or hiccoughs, if you prefer.

WRITER: FRED HILTON

An ill-timed hiccup can do many things, most of them bad. A hiccup can ruin a romantic moment, spook a 16-point buck or make you the object of hatred in a movie theater.

Hiccups are strange things. The experts know what hiccups are but aren’t sure exactly what causes them. “A hiccup, medically known as SDF (synchronous diaphragmatic flutter) or singultus, is a sudden, involuntary contraction of the diaphragm which occurs at the same time as a contraction of the voice box (larynx) and total closure of the glottis, effectively blocking air intake. The glottis is the middle part of the larynx, where the vocal cords are located,” according to Medical News Today.

Hiccups usually are triggered by minor stomach upsets. There are many conditions associated with a higher risk of developing hiccups. These include hot food irritating the nerve near the esophagus, eating too much food, eating too fast, a sudden change in temperature, fizzy drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, excitement, emotional stress and some medications.

Even though there’s no clear explanation on what causes hiccups, there are plenty of cures available. Many of these have been handed down

from generation to generation and most of them actually work pretty well. Some of the more popular techniques include holding your breath, drinking a glass of water quickly, having someone frighten you, pulling hard on your tongue, biting on a lemon, gargling with water, drinking from the far side of a glass and placing one-half teaspoon of dry sugar on the back of your tongue.

You usually have hiccups only for a little while and then they go away; no harm done. On rare occasions, a person can develop prolonged hiccups and just keep hiccupping and hiccupping. There are a variety of possible causes of long-term hiccups. They can interfere with eating, sleeping and speech.

Before complaining about your hiccups, remember the sad case of Charles Osborne. Back in 1922, Charles fell down when he was weighing a 350-pound hog for slaughter. A tiny blood vessel burst in Charles’ brain, and he began hiccupping. He hiccupped day and night for the next 68 years. The hiccups started at 40 times per minute on average and later dropped to 20 per minute. It is estimated that he hiccupped more than 430 million times in his lifetime.

Somehow, Charles not only maintained his sanity, he also managed to lead

a pretty normal life — other than the hiccups. He married twice and fathered eight children. For no apparent reason, Charles’ hiccups stopped about a year before he died. He lived to the ripe old age of 97.

Moral: Let someone else butcher your 350-pound hog. A BOUT is when hiccups last — on and off — for up to 48 HOURS

last 48 HOURS TO 1 MONTH

2 MONTHS

MedicineNet.com, medicinenet.com/ hiccups/article.htm; “Hiccups, Diseases and Conditions,” by Mayo Clinic Staff, Mayo Clinic, mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiccups/basics/causes/con-20031

/29674/what-causes-hiccupsand-why-does-sugar-cure-them; “Charles Osborne Had the Hiccups for 68 Years, from 1922 to 1990,” by Daven Hiskey, TodayIFoundOu t.com, todayifoundout.com/index.php/2011/07/charles-osborne-had-the-hiccups-for-68-years-from-1922-to-1990/ and intelihealth.co m/article/the-myth-andmystery-of-hiccups?hd=Medical PHOTO: Shutterstock.com

471; “What Causes Hiccups and Why Does Sugar Cure Them?” by Matt Soniak, MentalFloss.com, Jan. 6, 2012, mentalfl oss.com/article

At

us

HICCUPS BY LENGTH

Brian Clement, PhD, LN, has spearheaded the international progressive health movement for more than three and one-half decades. By conducting daily clinical research as the director of the renowned Hippocrates Health Institute, the world’s foremost complementary residential health Mecca, he and his team have developed a state of the art program for health maintenance and recovery.

www.HippocratesInstitute.org

May 16, 1–3 pm ( Doors open 12:30 PM )

COMFORT SUITES

1202 Aveni

Contact: Sabrina Ciceri (352) 267-3871

Power of Live Food to Transform Disease and Conquer Aging

In this lecture, Brian Clement will address the half century of work on disease and longevity conducted at the renowned Hippocrates Institute. Cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, MS, ALS, Parkinsons, fibromyalgia and more can be altered, prevented, and at times conquered with phyto-chemicals, antioxidants and other nutrients consumed on a diet of organic vegan living food.

Clement will explain the basic science and extraordinary mechanisms that bring about a heightened and balanced immunity. Hundreds of thousands worldwide share enthusiasm in their greatly improved health by utilizing unprocessed green foods. One of the exceptional benefits acquired from this powerful cuisine is longevity.

Get all your health questions answered regarding diabetes, heart disease, auto immune disorders, and Learn natural ways to turn back the hands of time. Book signing will follow lecture.

Their hearts are in it together

Two best buddies from Ocala have put their heads — and hearts — together and figured out a way to relieve the stress and uncertainty associated with visiting the doctor.

Arline Wixon and Barbara Saalfeld became

through a ministry at their church. “I was working at the church, and Arline volunteered there,” says Barbara, “I really needed help and she came in and got the office running smoothly. Pretty soon we found out we had a lot in common – a lot of the same interests. Friendship happens that way. You go along and don’t notice, then all of a sudden you think, ‘Wow, I’ve got a good friend.’”

Barbara didn’t hesitate when Arline mentioned that she needed a doctor. “She recommended her M.D. and that was it. We ended up with the same circle of physicians,” Arline recalled.

And Dr. Qamar at ICE is in the center of their circle.

Seeing Dr. Qamar isn’t as stressful as visits to other doctor’s offices, but

Arline and Barbara still like to accompany each other when one has an appointment at ICE.

“We don’t have our appointments at the same time, but when one goes, the other comes along,” Arline says. “As soon as either one makes an appointment, we sync our calendars. I have her appointments in my book and she has mine. Dr. Qamar talks to us both at the same time. We’re on each other’s HIPPA list.”

According to Barbara, “We go together whenever possible. The one who’s not the patient that day takes the notes. Sometimes I can think of questions to ask that she doesn’t and vice versa.”

Arline wouldn’t have it any other way. “When my situation started getting serious, I’d hear one word and just shut down,” she laughs. “I’d come home and tell Barbara and I guess I wasn’t giving her enough information. She said next time, I’m coming with you.”

“We do it because we care about one another,” Barbara said. “It’s so helpful to have that support. To know someone is there looking out for

you. Someone who cares and understands exactly what you’re going through because they’ve been there, too.”

When asked about ICE, both ladies have very strong opinions that, like their medical journeys together, they happen to share as well.

Says Barbara, “ICE is a place that really cares about you as a person. The whole person. They really want to look out for your interests and everyone is so competent. They’re caring and compassionate. And Dr. Qamar is a really good listener. If one of us is having a cath procedure, he’ll even come out and talk to the other one afterwards.”

Arline feels the same way. “Dr. Qamar looks at the whole picture, not just your heart and your arteries. He wants to know ever ything about you. He’s compassionate, warm and caring. I don’t know how but he never appears rushed. He’ll sit and talk to you as long as you need him to. I’ve sent so many people to see him, every time I go in I bet I know half the people in his waiting room.”

The doctor’s office doesn’t have to be a lonely, scary place.

Living for the

moment

They never expected to hear the words “Happy Mother’s Day.”

Every mom longs to be told “Happy Mother’s Day,” but the experience is especially moving for four local women who never thought they’d hear a child speak those wonderful words.

Years of failed pregnancy attempts dashed their dreams of motherhood. They lived on a lonely childless island, worrying about their biological clock ticking and constantly hearing friends gloat about how wonderful their children are.

But through patience, perseverance and hope, the four women in our story ultimately became mothers by opening their hearts to children who desperately needed a loving and caring home. Adoption has allowed them to enrich a child’s life, and enrich their own lives, as well. Mother’s Day is no longer a day of agony and despair, but rather a day of blessing and gratitude.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

PHOTOS: MATTHEW GAULIN

What gave Emily hope? What gave Emily hope? “I never allowed

A Great (Ad)option

There’s a sparkle in Emily Gaulin’s eyes as she talks about her six-month-old adopted son, Ethan. She loves everything about him — his adorable smile, chubby cheeks and big blue eyes.

“Ethan is one of the best-behaved babies I’ve ever been around,” says Emily, a 24-year-old resident of Eustis. “Being a mom is everything I hoped it would be.”

She wasn’t always sure she would have that opportunity. After marrying her high school sweetheart Michael in 2009, the couple spent two years attempting to conceive a child. Their attempts failed, and a visit to a medical practice revealed that Michael has azoospermia.

“When I learned about Michael’s condition I was upset because that meant I was never going to carry my own child. But I got over it because I love Michael to death.”

The Gaulins considered visiting a fertility clinic but didn’t feel the cost outweighed the risk. They ultimately decided to adopt a baby. Emily was in the delivery room when Ethan was born November 12, 2014.

“It was an extremely beautiful experience, and I instantly fell in love.”

The Gaulins agreed to an open adoption. Emily and Michael visit Ethan’s birth mother every two months and send her pictures.

“I want his real mom to be in his life. That way when we sit down with Ethan and tell him he’s adopted, it won’t be such a hard transition.”

This will be Emily’s first Mother’s Day as an official mother. She has no elaborate plans.

“I’d be perfectly happy sitting at home and being with Michael and Ethan.”

A Bundle of Joy

For Annette Visconti, the prospect of becoming a mother looked bleak.

At age 33, she immediately tried to get pregnant after marrying her husband, Dr. Michael Visconti, in 2009. After receiving a medical diagnosis of unexplained infertility several years later, the couple attempted to adopt a child, but the birth mother decided to keep her baby three weeks before the child was born.

“That was devastating,” says Annette, a resident of Clermont. “I was looking forward to having a child, and I was supposed to be in the delivery room when the mother gave birth. I was going through an emotional breakdown. By then, I was 37 and figured if I didn’t do something soon I’d be 45 and it would be too late. I was considering going to an infertility clinic because I didn’t want to go through the emotional gamble of adoption.”

Fate had different plans. The following year, Annette’s dream finally

came true. The Viscontis acted promptly when they learned the Department of Children and Families needed immediate adoptive parents for a baby girl. Annette met her child, Amara Hope, on December 30 — one day before Annette’s birthday. Annette took her home the same day.

“The first time I saw her I fell in love and immediately felt a strong bond. Other than getting married, it was the happiest moment of my life.”

Amara Hope, who today is 5 months old, is a bundle of joy who has been embraced by Annette’s stepdaughter, 11-year-old Emily Visconti.

“Emily feeds Amara, sits in the back of the car with her and makes her laugh,” Annette says. “She is a wonderful big sister.”

Annette has no regrets about not experiencing natural childbirth. “If I would have gotten pregnant then Amara would not be my baby. She was meant to be my baby.”

W hat gave A nnette hope? What gave Annette “My husband’s optimism and positive attitude are contagious, and he kept me sane even in the darkest of times.”

myself to give up hope or become angry and bitter. I always knew in the back of my mind that adoption was a viable option and I’d be a mother someday.”

Keep the Faith, Baby

Dr. Nicole Hancock loves being part of a successful podiatry practice. But at the end of the day, she’s always ready to rush home. There’s a reason for that. Awaiting her is 10-month-old Abbi, a beautiful baby who has an adorable smile and bursts with personality.

For Nicole, 40, it’s heartwarming to see Abbi reach those memorable milestones — crawling, teething and sitting up on her own.

“She has brought so much joy into my life,” says Nicole, a podiatrist who works at Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center with her husband Jason, who also is a podiatrist.

There was a time when Nicole wondered whether she’d ever become a mother. For six years, she could not conceive a child naturally or through IVF treatment. Doctors ultimately discovered that she had endometriosis.

“It was devastating,” she says. “I went through a mourning process, and it was hard to be out in public and see other mothers pushing their babies in strollers. I was happy in other areas of my life, but I wasn’t okay with not being a mom.”

The Hancocks decided adoption was the best option, and they took Abbi home when she was 24 hours old.

“I have no regrets about not giving birth to Abbi. She was born in my heart instead of my belly.”

Today, Nicole and Jason enjoy taking the beautiful blue-eyed baby to local festivals in Mount Dora and Leesburg. And when they’re visiting relatives, Abbi always is the center of attention.

“Her grandparents are over the moon around her.”

What gave Nicole hope? What gave Nicole “Prayer is what got me through the tough times. If you have faith, your prayers will be answered. I put everything in God’s hands and allowed things to fall in place. Whatever you do don’t give up.”

Little Saviors

When people compliment Linda Bennett for saving her two adopted boys, she always provides the same response.

“I tell them that my children are the ones who saved me.”

Linda and her husband Andrew spent 10 years attempting to conceive a child. Their efforts proved unsuccessful, and doctors could not pinpoint a medical reason for infertility. That took an emotional toll on Linda.

“My extreme desire to become a mother was taking over my life,” says the 45-year-old Eustis resident. “Every time one of my friends had a baby, I became angry and sad. I didn’t need to be pregnant or give birth; I just wanted to become a mother.”

As a result, the Bennetts contacted a private adoption agency and within several days were matched with a child. Their first son, Trekker, was born in 2008.

“We were there throughout part of the pregnancy and it felt like I was pregnant. I craved chocolate, and my hair was never straight again after he was born.”

Several years later, Linda and Andrew fostered 11-week-old Jay. They adopted him in February 2015, and their family was complete. Linda loves parenting two children with different personalities. Trekker is much more laid back and reserved, while Jay is outgoing and rambunctious.

“I literally started working out so I could have the energy to keep up with Jay. But seriously, they’ve brought joy back into my life that I desperately needed. I got me back and I got my happiness back. And the best part is when women tell me they’re pregnant, I can celebrate and honestly be happy for them.”

What gave Linda hope?

What gave Linda “Even during times I was extremely sad, I leaned on God to get me through it all. God gave me hope that I’d somehow, someway become a mother. He ultimately came through for me.”

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BIONIC

BREAKTHROUGHS IN MEDICINE

WOMEN

Fantasy becomes fact in Digital Age of Healthcare

Young girls who watched the Six Million Dollar Man and Bionic Woman perform superhuman feats 40 years ago are experiencing improved quality of life because science fiction fantasy has become medical science reality.

And it’s happening right here in our backyard. Robotic arms are handling delicate procedures with precision, heartbeats are being stabilized by pacemakers slightly larger than a penny that are essentially tiny computers, titanium-encased magnets are working like sealants, and bodies are being tricked into reducing symptoms by new therapies.

Advances in science and technology have translated beautifully to the field of medicine. And countless women are reaping the benefits. Women have so many more options now.

Quality of life takes on a completely different meaning because we are

WRITERS: SHANNON TIBBETTS & KATIE LEWIS

demanding it. We expect it. And medicine is answering the call.

Things women once viewed as unavoidable are no longer absolutes. Case in point: advanced breast cancer.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved Pfi zer Inc.’s Ibrance, a potential new standard of care for advanced breast cancer. The drug was approved for previously untreated

postmenopausal women whose cancer cells have receptors to estrogen and who do not have mutations in the HER2 gene that contribute to uncontrolled growth of breast cells.

Such patients represent the largest proportion of breast cancer cases and typically are treated with chemotherapy.

The new medication defi nitely is a game-changer for thousands of women like Dale Mathis, a resident

BREAST CANCER BECOME METASTATIC

of The Villages who was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2010 and has been taking Ibrance since February.

“Many medicines offered hinder your quality of life,” Mathis said. “They limit what you can do. But not this one. I’m very pleased. I have experienced no side effects at all.”

Mathis is one of two patients being treating with the new medication by Dr. Maen Hussein, of Florida Cancer Specialists in The Villages. “This is the fi rst drug that is specific and inhibits only the enzymes that we want it to,” Hussein said. “The drug is effective in treating estrogensensitive cancers. It’s the fi rst of its class.”

Speaking of hormones, menopause also has been addressed in recent medical breakthroughs.

In February of 2014, the Menopause Society released results of a study that could significantly reduce the moderate to severe hot fl ashes that result from unavoidable body changes. A simple injection near a nerve bundle in the neck could mean the difference between a night on the town or sitting by the air conditioner.

Technology is also addressing the No. 1 killer of women — heart disease. Every minute, one woman dies from heart disease. It claims more women than all cancers combined. But the killer is being stalked by medical breakthroughs.

EVERY YEAR, 50,000 WOMEN WILL SEE THEIR

AND 30,000 OF THESE WOMEN WILL BE ABLE TO BE TREATED WITH THIS DRUG, A TARGETED THERAPY THAT WILL KILL THE BAD CELLS WITHOUT AFFECTING THE GOOD CELLS, A REMARKABLE ALTERNATIVE TO CHEMOTHERAPY.

— NOREEN FRASER, Founder and CEO of the Noreen Fraser Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profi t organization dedicated to funding groundbreaking women’s cancer research.

Dale Mathis meets with Dr. Maen Hussein

Just last year, Florida Hospital Waterman introduced the world’s fi rst implantable defibrillator outside of the heart. The new device is a real game-changer. Today, almost 4 million people are being kept alive by traditional pacemakers and defibrillators. Talk about going wireless. The subcutaneous implantable defibrillator (S-ICD) system developed by Boston Scientific, is placed just under the skin and leaves the heart and blood vessels untouched. There are no restrictive wires to attach to your heart.

The S-ICD does not use insulated wires, known as leads, to provide electrical shocks, but rather a combination of a pulse generator and an electrode that surround the heart. “This innovative technology is paving the way for better outcomes and improved quality of life for our cardiac patients,” said Miguel Bryce, M.D., Medical Director of Electrophysiology at Florida Hospital Waterman. “The

THE FDA HAS APPROVED AN INJECTABLE SUBSTANCE THAT ELIMINATES FAT UNDER THE CHIN.

ATX-101 will help people dramatically reduce their double chin. No price for this new breakthrough is given, but Yahoo! News reports that this cure can cost upwards of $2,000 depending on the severity of affected areas.

device is clinically proven to provide patients with the same reliable protection as a traditional ICD but with a decreased chance of complications and potential damage to the heart and its surrounding area.”

And the S-ICD isn’t the only wireless innovation making waves here in Lake County. Florida Hospital Waterman electrophysiologists Dr.George Monir and Dr. Scott Pollak became the fi rst in Florida to implant a leadless pacemaker last year. This tiny device, smaller than an AAA battery, resides entirely in the right ventricle of the heart and is inserted through the groin rather than the chest. “The traditional pacemaker requires surgery and insertion of a wire called a lead into the heart,” said Pollak. “Over time, the leads can degrade and malfunction over a period of years.”

include added comfort and safety, factors that will save lives because more women will get the tests done.

The push for revolutionary new systems is being driven by women determined to resume living a full life after surgery. And scientists, researchers and medical practitioners are responding.

A team of engineers, scientists and medical researchers from the University of Melbourne are developing a NEW GENERATION

OF BIONIC DEVICES

to treat epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and spinal injuries. Engineering prototypes of the devices have been developed and tests are in the process of being certified. Before being rolled out to the public, the devices would also need to gain regulatory approval.

With the leadless pacemaker, there are no scars and no chest bulge that often restricts mobility for patients. Instead, this will most likely lead to a longer, more active life with the ability to remove the device when the latest marvel in medicine comes to town.

Being fi rst is business as usual at Florida Hospital Waterman. The hospital also boasts the fi rst ACRcertified Breast Imaging Center of Excellence in Lake County that uses digital mammography rather than fi lm. “The imaging time for the patient is less but the most important is that the resolution is much improved and the radiation exposure is much less,” says Dr. Ram Krishnan. Other benefits

Not every medical advancement is high-tech. Some breakthroughs are more science than technology. Case in point: the LINX implant used to help people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition that occurs when stomach acid goes up into the esophagus that can lead to cancer if untreated. LINX, an almost simplistic device that resembles an elastic bracelet you’d put on the wrist of a small doll, is being used to fend off esophageal cancer, one of the fastest growing cancers in the U.S. This small implant comprised of titanium and magnetic beads attaches to the outside of the esophagus just above the stomach and will stretch or contract to allow food to enter the stomach but prevent acid from escaping. The LINX implant was approved by the FDA in 2014 and has shown a success rate of over 90% in combating GERD. And that is something that can quite literally help you sleep at night.

IMAGINE RUBBING A VACCINATION INTO YOUR SKIN.

University of Auckland researchers have found a way to deliver medicines through skin, which is usually an impervious barrier. Results of human trials of a face serum will be presented to the World Congress of Dermatology.

The marvels presented here are just the tip of the iceberg. So much is changing in this digital age. Chances are another breakthrough has occurred in the time it took you to read this article.

Erica Harden ARNP NUTRITION

Coronary artery disease is the number one cause of death in women. The good news is that many of the factors that contribute to heart disease are modifiable and can be lessened by changing your lifestyle. Some of the modifiable risk factors of heart disease are high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes and hypertension. All of these are risk factors that can be improved or worsened with nutrition. By simply eating more natural food and less saturated fat and sodium you can greatly improve your health and lower our disease risk. If you would like some help improving your diet and reducing your risk of advancing heart disease then contact us today.

Dalida Couturier EXERCISE

Exercise centers on moving to music and having fun! My husband and I just started out on a new adventure taking dance lessons. It improves memory, gait and balance. Rhythm is in our soul and incorporating it is the icing on the cake!! Stretching improves flexibility and range of motion. Dancing is cardiovascular exercise, which raises heart rate and increases endurance and circulation. Walking and swimming are easy low-impact exercises that help with endurance and are easy on joints. Yoga and tai chi improve balance, strength, flexibility and concentration.

DISCUSSION OF

Women, it’s time to take your health to heart. Approximately 43 million women in the U.S. are affected by heart disease. In fact, heart disease is the leading killer among females, causing 1 in 3 women’s deaths each year.

Source: American Heart Association

www.heartofthevillages.com

Cardiovascular medications are used for one of two reasons: Primary prevention or secondary prevention. In primary prevention, the goal is to decrease the likelihood of developing heart disease. The most commonly prescribed drugs in this category are the “statins”, which are well known for their cholesterol-lowering abilities. Specifically, they lower the bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise the good cholesterol (HDL), thereby reducing the risk of plaque buildup within the arteries. A main goal of secondary prevention is to reduce symptoms in those people already diagnosed with some form of heart disease. Drugs typically used include those that increase the pumping ability of the heart, increase blood flow to the coronary arteries, and decrease the risk of heart attack, associated complications, and death.

An inexpensive and non-invasive test known as an echo-cardiogram (echo) is one way to evaluate structural heart disease. An echo is an ultrasound of the heart that uses sound waves to evaluate structural abnormalities in the heart muscle, valves, and plumbing. It can help your doctor estimate the pump strength — known as the ejection fraction — of your heart. It can assess wall abnormalities, which helps identify areas that may have been damaged by a heart attack or are lacking blood supply. It can also detect narrowing or leaky heart valves.

Devin Discala ARNP DIAGNOSTICS

Kwynn Nicholas RN MEDICATIONS

TheSurgery Center of Mount Dora

THE SURGERY CENTER OF MT. DORA IS A JOINT VENTURE WITH REGENT SURGICA L HEALTH, NINE LOCAL PHYSICIANS AND LEESBURG REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER T H NEWLY CONSTRUCTED, 12,000 SQUARE FO O FACILITY FEATURES THREE OPERATING ROOMS AND ONE PROCEDURE ROOM. TH E SURGERY CENTER INCLUDES SPECIALISTS IN ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY, GENERAL SURGERY, UROLOGY, GYNECOLOGY, ENT, PODIATRY, GASTROENTEROLOGY AND PAIN MANAGE

Dr. Steven Pi llow of La ke Obstetrics and Gynecology has practiced in La ke County since 1985. In recent years, he has per formed various minima lly invasive surg ica l procedures at Th e Surgery Center of Mount Dora , w wh ich he feels is advantageous for patients.

“It’s a h ig h-qua l ity faci lity t hat runs ver y efficient ly,” he says. “I k now my patients wi ll receive outst and ing care, and t hey get to go home t he same d ay.”

At t he surgery center, Dr. Pi llow offers:

• Hysteroscopy to remove polyps and fibroids in the uterine cavity

• Dilation curettage to stop abnormal uterine bleeding from miscarriage or post-menopause

• Essure implants for permanent birth control

• Tubal ligation

• NovaSure endometrial ablation to treat uterine bleeding

• Diagnostic Laparoscopy for pelvic pain

• Interstim Placement for overactive bladder

r.

“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-toearth urologist with thirty-three years of experience in treating men with prostate problems in Lake County. Although the cause of these symptoms is most likely an enlarging prostate (BPH), a normal part of the aging process in men, treatment options are more numerous and less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers.

Years ago there were two options for treating an enlarged prostate: surgical excision via an open operation (knife) or much more commonly by performing a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), commonly referred to as a “roto-rooter” by patients and physicians. Both required hospitalization as well as major anesthesia and could be fraught with complications such as bleeding, infection, loss of bladder control and even death.

“In my career I have performed over 3,000 TURPs; however, I no longer perform any,” says Dr. Young. “There are presently too many excellent alternatives to consider a hospital operation for the vast majority of patients with BPH.”

“When I see a new patient I perform a physical examination and properly evaluate the patient’s symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” he says. “Next, I describe to the patient what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with him. Lastly, I teach him his treatment options. If I’ve done a good job of teaching, he will select the correct option for himself.”

While prescribing medications for BPH can be done by primary care physicians, only urologists are trained to thoroughly

evaluate the bladder and prostate (including ruling out prostate cancer), as well as providing extremely effective minimally invasive, office-based therapies as alternatives to lifelong medical therapy.

One such option is Prostiva-RF Therapy, a procedure performed by Dr. Young in his office under local anesthesia that usually takes less than thirty minutes. Prostiva utilizes low level radiofrequency energy to ablate (destroy) the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate. “I am very happy with the results I have achieved for my patients using Prostiva-RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated more than 2,400 patients with this procedure.

“Medtronic is a $13 billion-a-year, publicly traded corporation that perfected the technology for Prostiva and produces the necessary hardware. Recently, Medtronic produced an educational DVD for international distribution to inform patients and physicians worldwide regarding the benefits of Prostiva therapy. Seven of the eight patients featured on the DVD are my patients. I am very proud Medtronic selected my practice to feature the benefits of Prostiva-RF Therapy. However it is sort of a bad news/good news thing. The bad news is neither my patients nor myself received a penny for our participation. The good news is Medtronic gave us all the DVD’s we want, so if anyone wants one all he needs to do is drop by my office at 801 Northshore Drive in Eustis, and we will give him one!”

And with an office staff with nearly as much experience as the doctor, (many have worked with Dr. Young more than twenty

years) you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients. We respect our patient’s time as much as we do our own,” adds Dr. Young. “Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.”

So if you are getting up at night and can’t get back to sleep because you are thinking about what may be wrong with you, it’s time to check in with Dr. Young and have him check you out.

“Many men accept frequent bladder urges as part of aging. And while it is part of the aging process, it’s not like death and taxes. There is something you can do about it,” he says. JAMES

Practicing in Lake County for over 33 years with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems.

PART 4 OF OUR ONGOING SERIES EXAMINING FOSTER CARE

Becoming Independent

WRITER:

Celebrating an 18th birthday, graduating high school, deciding between continuing education or getting a job are all exciting first steps into adulthood. For teens that have grown up in the foster care system, however, those milestones can be quite intimidating. If foster teens make wrong choices, they most likely do not have parents to fall back on.

“Aging out” happens when foster children turn 18 years old and, thus, become legal adults. Kids Central, Inc. — the community-based agency that works with the Florida Department of Children and Families in the Fifth Judicial Circuit — administers an independent living program for teens about to leave the foster care system. Coordinators begin the transition planning process when children in the foster care system turn age 17. The young person’s goals are the driving force for the transition plan, which looks at academic and career options as well as counseling and medical needs.

Years ago, foster children did not have an option to remain in foster care after their 18th birthday — whether they

were ready or not for the world. The independent living program, however, offers foster youth an option to remain in extended foster care until they turn 22 if they are enrolled in an eligible post-secondary institution or until age 23 if they have medical disabilities. Those furthering their education can get financial assistance through Florida’s Post Secondary Education Service Support program.

“I felt very comfortable transitioning into Independent Living,” says 21-yearold Brandon F. of Lake County. “I had a supportive team of mentors who guided me through the process.”

Brandon, currently a sophomore at the University of Florida majoring in philosophy, believes the Independent Living program administered through Kids Central taught him the life skills he needed. He also credits the support from his foster parents, who adopted him, for his success.

Likewise, 22-year-old Giovanni M. believes the Independent Living program through Kids Central helped her develop skills that were necessary

to her success. The former Lake County resident spent four years in the foster care system. She is finishing her studies at College of Central Florida in Ocala and plans a career in social work, where she can work with foster kids.

“My advice to other youth who are in the foster care system is to remember you can be anything you set your mind to,” says Giovanni. “Don’t let the label people put on you stop you.”

Currently, Kids Central serves 16 Lake County youths in its independent living program, and 13 of those are enrolled in higher education institutions. The others are 18 year olds who are completing high school or General Equivalency Diploma programs. Often, foster children get academically behind because of moves or the traumatic situations they’ve endured that put them into foster care in the first place. They are aging out of the system, but still need to complete high school or a GED.

“This year, we’ve been working on approving homes where these young people can stay after they age out,” says Hannah Rios, supervisor for Kids Central’s Independent Living

An 18th birthday brings a lot of changes for a foster child. Luckily, there are programs to help make successful transitions into adulthood.

MARY ANN DESANTIS PHOTOS: MATTHEW GAULIN

program. “We’ve had good results so far. Empty nesters who can provide a room temporarily are often ideal, because these kids don’t have to be watched 24 hours a day.”

Brandon, who plans to own his own business some day, advises those young people coming behind him to focus on self-improvement as they begin the aging out process. “The journey may seem long, but stay dedicated to becoming the best version of yourself that you can be.”

A stepping stone to independence

Not every foster child wants to go to college. Many are anxious to get jobs and start lives on their own. Every day, Jack Foreman of Leesburg talks to young people who have found that starting from scratch and achieving complete independence is not so easy.

In 2006, Jack founded the Stepping Stone Coalition in Lake County to help the young people that were transitioning out of foster care. Since then, the nonprofit organization has expanded its services to help foster families that have children with medical needs and grandparents who care for grandchildren placed in the child welfare system. However, it’s often the young people starting out that concern Jack the most.

“I pray for the ones graduating every day,” he says. “They have tough choices and no one to lean on. Many of these kids don’t know how to manage money and can end up homeless.”

Jack and his wife Joy, who works at Kids Central, have helped four of their own foster children age out of the system. Two are in higher education. The others went to work. The couple recognized firsthand that young people don’t always realize what it takes to set up a first apartment.

“Things like buying a shower curtain or stocking a kitchen take money,” says Joy. “They don’t always realize how quickly it’s going to add up.”

In March, the Stepping Stone

Coalition opened a thrift store in the Santa Rosa Plaza on Highway 27, just south of Leesburg. In addition to selling gently used household goods, the store will raise money for the coalition’s food pantry, which serves 200 children and 85 families.

“We currently go through about 3,500 pounds of food a week,” says Jack. “We get donations, but we still have to buy some food.”

A retired artist for Disney and Universal, Jack opened Stepping Stone Coalition with his own funds. He considers it a calling to help foster families and teens who are transitioning out of the system. In the midst of planning for the thrift store, the coalition took over the management of Converge Teen Center in Lake Square Mall.

“We’re working on setting up life skills program at Converge, which is a faith-based program,” he says. “Just handling daily chores can be a challenge for some of these kids.”

Seeing success is often slow, the Foremans say, but it does happen, especially when relationships and trust are built.

“We want to work with them on an ongoing basis,” says Jack. “My goal is to get grants to help them with rent and electricity. They need a buffer when they start out.”

HELP TEENS LEAVING FOSTER CARE

You can be part of the village that it takes to see a foster child through to adulthood. Teens aging out of the system often need help getting off on the right foot toward becoming successful adults.

• Volunteer a few hours at the Stepping Stone Coalition Thrift Store in the Santa Rosa Plaza on Highway 27.

• Make a tax deductible contribution to Stepping Stone Coalition, a 501c3 organization.

• Donate clothing and household items that newly independent teens can use or that can be sold in the thrift shop.

• Donate non-perishable food to the Stepping Stone Coalition’s food bank, which serves more than 200 children and 85 families in the foster care program. Food bank volunteers are needed on Mondays.

• Volunteer to teach life skills at the new faith-based Converge Teen Center in Lake County or mentor a youth who is aging out of the foster care system.

• Provide temporary housing through Kids Central, Inc., for a young person in the independent living program who is trying to finish his or her education.

• Check the Kids Central website at www.kidscentral.org for periodic wish lists and needs.

Jack and Joy Foreman

Enrollment for 2015-2016 has begun! Enrollment will continue until classes are full.

BODY

Gluten has become a hot topic in recent years as millions of Americans review their eating habits in an effort to get healthier. The spotlight is really on gluten this month since May is Celiac Disease Awareness Month. Celiac Disease is a disorder in which gluten triggers an immune system reaction that damages villi in the small intestine. Thus, the body cannot absorb vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs to stay healthy. People with Celiac Disease are at risk for malnutrition and anemia.

SOURCE: kidshealth.org/teen/diseases_ conditions/digestive/celiac.html

PHOTO: Shutterstock.com

IMAGE

DEADLY DELUSION

Anorexics see fat when they look in a mirror.

WRITER: RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, MD, FACS

Anorexia nervosa is a uniquely female disorder. Although it can affect men, 85-95 percent of those with anorexia nervosa (usually simply called anorexia) are women. The Latin root of the word anorexia means loss appetite or desire for food. The medical condition of anorexia, however, has less to do with appetite or desire for food and much more to do with an abnormal attitude toward food coupled with a distorted body image.

The distorted body image is such that advanced anorexics, who look like someone who has suffered severe, prolonged starvation, can look in the mirror and still see a fat person. Anorexia also is about control. Many women with anorexia use the obsessive control over their eating as a means to cope with external

stresses and emotional issues in their lives. This control can take one or more of several forms.

One of these include binging and purging. Anorexics will eat a meal and then turn around and induce vomiting and/or diarrhea. Vomiting can be induced by the simple technique of a finger down the throat. In time, women can learn to vomit almost at will. Chronic vomiting can produce dangerous tears in the lining of the esophagus, and the acidic stomach contents can damage the enamel of the teeth.

Laxative abuse is another way of purging, and women can become dependent on laxative use for their bowel function. Another form of control is excessive exercising. All of these are due to a fear of gaining weight.

Anorexia is a potentially fatal condition. The severe starvation can lead to all sorts of problems with electrolyte balance in the blood, heart and kidney function, weakening of the bones, and more. The famous singer, Karen Carpenter, died of complications of her anorexia. Depression often is seen in anorexics and can raise the specter of suicide as a concern.

DIAGNOSING ANOREXIA NERVOSA

There is no specific test for anorexia nervosa. The diagnosis is made by a combination of a physical examination and a thorough medical history.

According to the Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association, the following criteria must be present for a diagnosis of anorexia:

Restriction of food intake - this means not eating enough to maintain a body weight that is at or above the

minimal normal for the patient’s height and weight.

Fear of gaining weight - anorexics have an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat. They engage in persistent behavior, such as purging, even though they may be dangerously thin.

Having a distorted body image - this is classic anorexic behavior. Despite the fact that everyone else sees them as much too thin, they still perceive themselves as overweight or fat.

Treatment of anorexia requires a team of professionals and can be

Anorexia facts according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders:

• Anorexia is the third most common long-term illness among teenagers.

• Girls make up 85-90% of those who suffer from anorexia.

• 95% of patients are between the ages of 12 and 26

• Anorexia is the most common cause of death, 12 times more common than the second most common cause among young women aged 15-24

divided into three phases. These don’t run consecutively, rather, they usually overlap.

The first is to treat any medical issues due to food restriction. Treating heart problems, restoring normal kidney function and correcting electrolyte imbalances must be done, as these can be life threatening.

The second aspect of treatment is to restore a healthy body weight through diet and supplements. In severe cases, feeding may initially be done intravenously or by feeding tubes placed directly into the stomach.

The third tier of treatment involves dealing with the psychiatric/ psychological conditions that led to the anorexia in the first place. Some of this may be started in a hospital and then continued in either an inpatient or outpatient treatment facility for such disorders, depending on the circumstances.

There are no medications specifically for anorexia. Medications can be given to deal with anxiety and depression, and any medical issues the patient may have due to the anorexia.

RESOURCES

For more information about anorexia nervosa, call womenshealth.gov at 800.994.9662 (TDD: 888.220.5446) or contact the following organizations:

Academy for Eating Disorders

Phone: 847.498.4274

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders

Phone: 847.831.3438

National Eating Disorders Association

Phone: 800.931.2237

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), NIH, HHS

Phone: 866.615.NIMH (6464)

National Mental Health Information Center, SAMHSA, HHS

Phone: 800.789.2647

IS ANOREXIA THE SAME AS BULIMIA?

No. Bulimia is a condition characterized by binging and purging. Binging is the act of eating a large amount of food in a short period of time. Purging is inducing vomiting and/or bowel movements to avoid gaining weight. Like anorexics, bulimics fear gaining weight, have control issues, and have a distorted body image. Unlike anorexics, bulimics are usually of normal weight for their height.

There also is a disorder in which individuals binge eat but do not purge afterwards. As might be expected, binge eaters tend to be overweight or obese, with all the problems those conditions can create

Both of these are primarily conditions of compulsion and control, thus psychiatric/ psychological counseling are integral to treatment, as with anorexia.

LEG WORKOUT

GET A LEG UP

Squats produce great gains.

She’s got legs, and she knows how to use them. That’s right, proper leg exercises will result in healthy, beautiful legs that may conjure up memories of an old ZZ Top song. Leah Ginn, director of operations at MVP Sports Club, demonstrates some basic leg exercises.

SQUAT WITH HIP ABDUCTION

Set position: Start with feet hip-width apart, toes pointed forward.

Sink down into your heels for the squat.

As you come up, lift the right leg out to the side, keeping in mind that right knee and toes will stay facing forward.

Come back to set position and repeat on the left side.

Complete 10-20 repetitions on each side.

FORWARD ALTERNATING LUNGES

Set position: Start with feet together.

Step forward with left foot. Sinking into front heel, bend both knees to a comfortable range of motion. (Back heel will lift off floor.)

Push back with right foot and return to set position.

Repeat on left side.

Complete 10-20 repetitions on each side.

‘ASSISTED’ SINGLE-LEG SQUAT

Set position: Left foot is on the floor and right foot is elevated behind you (on a curb, step, bench, etc.)

Keep majority of your body weight in the left leg, squat down to a comfortable range of motion by sinking into the heel of your left foot.

Keep hips and butt back as if you were sitting down in a chair.

Pressing through the heel, come back to set position.

Complete 10-20 repetitions and repeat on the left side.

RECIPE BODY

SEAFOOD CUCUMBER STACKS

Snack is as nutritious as it is ‘cuke’.

These refreshing hors d‘oeuvres are equally delicious made with salmon, trout, shrimp or crab, so pick a seafood that‘s best for your budget. For vegetarians, a slice of baked tofu is a perfect substitute for the seafood.

SPRING SALMON

Ingredients:

1/2 cup light sour cream

1 bunch chives, finely chopped, divided zest and 1 tablespoon juice from 1 lemon

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1 (4-ounce) package smoked salmon or smoked trout, or 8 ounces crab meat, or 12 medium peeled, deveined and halved cooked shrimp

1 seedless cucumber, cut into 24 slices

Makes 2 dozen

Directions:

In a small bowl, combine sour cream, half of the chives, lemon zest and juice, salt and pepper. If using salmon or trout, cut into 24 bite-sized pieces. Arrange a piece of seafood on each cucumber slice then top with a dollop of sour cream mixture and garnish with remaining chives.

NUTRITIONAL INFO

25 calories (10 from fat), 1g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 10mg cholesterol, 60mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0g dietary fiber, 1g sugar), 3g protein

LIP SERVICE

Yes,

Full, voluptuous lips are an asset sought by all women who pay big bucks to have their lips plumped with fillers, tattooed with permanent makeup and smoothed with chemical peels and lasers to remove the fine lines.

But you don’t need expensive and professional lip augmentation to help your lips look and feel better long term. You can practice proper lip care at home

FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES:

• Gently exfoliate your lips daily.

• Remove all lipstick each night before bedtime.

• Keep your lips moist with a lip conditioner; coconut oil works wonders.

• Protect your lips from sun damage with a sunscreen made for lips.

OTHER TIPS TO MAKE YOUR LIPS SHINE:

• Gently exfoliate your lips with fine buffing grains or a buffing cloth, then rinse and dry.

• Apply a thin layer of non-oily lip conditioner.

• Use a camouflage brush to apply a thin line of concealer around the outer edges of the lips, blending thoroughly.

• Outline the lips with a lip pencil in the color of your choice, then fill in the lips with the same pencil.

• Apply a layer of your favorite lipstick or gloss.

• Finish with a highlight of shimmery gold or frosty white in the middle section of the lower lip.

R UPBODY

DID YOU KNOW?

National Lipstick Day is celebrated July 29. However, there was a time when lipstick was frowned upon. Early in the Greek empire, red lipstick signaled that a woman was a prostitute because in that time most women went without makeup.

SOURCE: huffingtonpost. com/2014/07/28/lipstick-historyfacts_n_2791887.html

HOTTEST LIPSTICK COLORS IN 2015

Almond shade is popular among women who work in offices. It is good for both daytime and nighttime functions and complements bright glittering dresses.

Bronze shimmer shade has been extremely popular among brides with fair skin. It goes well with bright, red dresses.

Electric purple is in fashion for women who have dark hair. It makes lips glowing and captivating.

Velvet red lipstick is one of the most popular colors for women attending nighttime functions. With a black outfit, you’re sure to look stunning.

SOURCE: etv3.net/makeup-trends/top-5hot-lipstick-colors-2015-latest-hot-lipstickcolors-2015-2518.html

you can have luscious lips.

WRITER: RUTH ANN BYRD

Shannon Weber, ARNP Sh Shannno no

MIND

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. In this section, Healthy Living presents valuable information about various conditions so you can seek out help for you or a loved one.

*Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S. They affect 18 percent of the population.

*Source: Anxiety and Depression Association of America

PHOTO: Shutterstock.com

VALUES MIND

THE COST OF FREE

The downside of getting something for nothing

We’re wired to believe that “free” means cheap. While that is often the case, it isn’t always true when applied to counseling, coaching and education. Countless people have expanded their knowledge from used books purchased for 25 cents, clarified goals at a free seminar or gained valuable advice from a friend — free of charge. When it comes to counseling, many people spend big bucks for little results because they didn’t find the right person to help them develop. How much you grow depends on how much of yourself you invest. Life coach Scott Perkins offers the following observations on “free” help:

WHAT

TENDS TO HAPPEN TO A PERSON’S MINDSET WHEN SOMETHING IS OFFERED FREE?

$ A prominent, although not universal, rule of thumb in the world of counseling and coaching is to require some, even nominal, form of payment for services that are being requested.

PROVIDING SOMETHING FREE ELIMINATES A SOURCE OF MOTIVATION.

PROVIDING SOMETHING FREE ENABLES IRRESPONSIBILITY.

$There may be an initial excitement to get the product or service, but once received, having no skin in the game reduces motivation. For the client, if the appointment is free, it is that much easier to cancel or not show up.

This reminds me of the story a mentor told me long ago. Within his church, there was fondness for an annual “singing Christmas tree” event. For a couple years they put great preparation into promoting and producing the event, and then performed for a 2,000-capacity house that was half full. Someone had the counterintuitive idea to have a nominal charge for tickets, with no other changes to procedure or production. The result: They had to add a second show, and both sold out.

$Similar to the previous point, when the going gets tough (as it eventually will in counseling or education) without the fear of loss of investment, many ultimately will drop out not to be heard from again. Life is busy, there will always be competition for our time, and if we have not placed value on something, then it is easy to let obligations fall by the wayside.

PROVIDING SOMETHING FREE REDUCES PERCEIVED VALUE.

FINALLY, PROVIDING SOMETHING FREE DECREASES ACCOUNTABILITY.

Thhiki hi lik was really worth anything, I’d have paid for it.” In the realm of coaching, counseling, hlh d i aacoaue uences whether or not the ai killbe taken seriously.

$The thinking goes something like, “if this w I’d c ” health, or education, a lack of value influen actions, steps or work will be

Think of the email a waiting for you in y

o eeaadvice and information g our inbox every morning.

It may be a subsc out routine, recip devotional How m to delete without were paying?

I b bcription to a daily work-

o i i es, leadership advice, or

d i lH much harder would it be t reading if you knew you ?

$When first receiving training as a coach, I offered to see my first five clients for free. This arrangement allowed me to obtain hours I needed for certification and necessary experience. All but one client continually did not follow through on the actions that were developed. The other person was haphazard. Paying motivates clients to the work between sessions because they want to see progress. Obviously there are times when accepting a free offering is good. In my practice, I still often offer a free session as a way to demonstrate value. And I know many consultants, coaches, and personal trainers who do likewise.

But, when the expectation is that what you are receiving comes without strings, it often becomes coupled with a taken-for-granted attitude. We will place our resources consistent with what we value.

How does where your resources are placed align with what you claim your values are? How does that explain the results you are getting?

HEALTH MIND

MATTERS OF THE MIND

There’s nothing crazy about mental illness

GENDER AND MENTAL ILLNESS

When it comes to mental illness, there certainly are differences in men and women. Women are more likely to develop anxiety and mood disorders, such as depression. Conversely, men’s mental health issues are more likely to involve antisocial personality and substance abuse disorders. Women tend to internalize their emotions, which leads to withdrawal, loneliness and depression. Men externalize their problems, leading to aggressive and impulsive behavior.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF MENTAL ILLNESS

Emotional: People typically feel sadness, anxiety, guilt, mood swings and hopelessness.

Psychological: People engage in frequent self-criticism, self-blame and pessimism. They also believe others see them in a negative light and have thoughts of death and suicide.

Behavioral: People experience crying spells, withdrawal from others, neglect their responsibilities, lose all motivation and engage in drugs and alcohol.

Physical: People experience chronic fatigue, lack of energy and weight loss, loss of sexual desire and unexplained aches and pains.

SOURCE: cpcwa.org/InformationAndResources/misigns.html

BY THE NUMBERS

Mid-20s: the average onset of major depression

18 — the percentage of Americans ages 18-54 who have an anxiety disorder in a given year

Suicide — the leading cause of death in adolescents ages 15 to 24

1 in 5 — the ratio of Americans who suffer from a mental illness each year

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

UNFORTUNATELY, MENTAL ILLNESS IS COMMONLY MISDIAGNOSED

• According to a Michigan State University economist, nearly 1 million children in the United States are misdiagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

• One study found that one-fourth of patients who actually have bipolar disorder first were diagnosed with conditions such as depression.

If you feel you may have a mental disorder, you may feel ashamed and embarrassed. After all, there is a stigma attached with mental illness. However, seeking help is of utmost importance. You’re not psycho or crazy; you’re a human being who needs professional medical help, which is no different than a cancer patient.

SHOCKING STATS

1 in 5 men develop alcohol dependence, compared to 1 in 12 women.

According to a study by the National Institute of Mental Health, women are 70 percent more likely to suffer from depression than men and 60 percent more likely to report an anxiety disorder. Bipolar disorder is more common in women than men, with a ratio of 3:2, according to the National Comorbidity Study. Four times as many men than women commit suicide.

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

HERE ARE SOME STEPS TO TAKE

1. Start with your primary care physician. He or she can evaluate you and refer you to a mental health care professional, if necessary.

2. Use anonymous help lines, which help you understand mental health services and put you in touch with organizations that can help you.

3. Talk about your fears and anxieties with a sympathetic friend or family member. It can be liberating to talk with someone about something you perceive as shameful or problematic.

4. When visiting a mental health counselor for the first time, ask a friend to accompany you. This can be quite comforting, especially if you have anxiety problems.

5. Consider attending support groups. Knowing you are not the only one in the world suffering from a problem can bring instant peace of mind. You also can obtain valuable advice about coping mechanisms.

SETTING THE BAR IN STROKE CARE

Edgar Sites walks nearly two miles each day. He helps his wife, Linda, perform tasks inside and outside the home. And he can spin and turn with the best of them on nights when he’s ballroom dancing.

To observe the 85-year-old resident of The Villages today, you’d never guess he suffered a stroke on February 19.

One might call him a walking miracle. He has full use of his limbs. His speech is not slurred. And he hasn’t endured a long, arduous road to recovery.

administered within three hours of the onset of stroke symptoms and helps minimize physical damage caused by stroke.

“Thankfully, my brain wasn’t starved of oxygen, and that’s why I’m doing as good as I am today. LRMC saved my life, and I realize how fortunate I am. I never had to undergo any type of rehabilitation or relearn how to talk or swallow.”

Edgar was hospitalized for nine days.

“Nobody obviously likes to stay in a hospital that

Edgar is unsure whether his story truly represents a miracle or not. However, he has nothing but praise for the team at team at Leesburg Regional Medical Center (LRMC) for effectively diagnosing his stroke and promptly treating him.

“If it wasn’t for LRMC, I’d either be dead or I’d be a vegetable for the rest of my life,” he says.

After arriving at the hospital via ambulance, Edgar was immediately treated with tissue plasminogen activator, or TPA, which dissolves the clot and improves blood flow to the brain. The drug is most effective when

long, but I must say that my experience was wonderful. The nurses, in particular, were very attentive and always took the necessary time to answer my questions. After I was discharged, one nurse even emailed me to ask how I was doing. I truly appreciated that.”

Prior to his stroke, Edgar had been hospitalized in January for pneumonia. His symptoms never went away, and he constantly felt weak and tired.

“I felt much better when I left LRMC. I credit the hospital for finishing off my pneumonia and saving my life.”

“Edgar was immediately treated with tissue plasminogen activator, or TPA, which dissolves the clot and improves blood flow to the brain.”

DR. MARJERY LOPEZ Board-Certified in Internal and Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC, The Villages Regional Hospital and Promise Hospital.

DR. JOSÉ DIAZ Board-Certified in Internal and Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC, The Villages Regional Hospital and Promise Hospital.

MARIA BYRD, ARNP Certified in adult health, specializing in Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC and Promise Hospital.

PILAR SMITH, ARNP Certified in adult health, specializing in Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at Promise Hospital.

SPIRIT

“When you spend time, not money, your kids are all the richer for it.”

—National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.

PHOTO: Shutterstock.com

THE GIFT OF TIME SPIRIT

LIVING TREASURES

WRITER:

Ioften wonder about how we can best nurture our children. What will our children remember most about their childhoods? Will it be the lessons that I tried to impart to them about being a “good” person? Will it be what I formally taught them in terms of their academics and proper study habits? Will it be the outings to get ice cream after school or taking naps together on a Sunday afternoon?

It is difficult to say sometimes what decisions and behaviors impact our children the most. On Mother’s Day, both my son and daughter brought home handmade cards from school. My son’s card said, “Happy Mother’s Day. I love you because you are a good coocer.” (“cooker” or chef). I was taken aback, as I never really thought my son was interested in food or what I made for him...but apparently, he noticed. My daughter’s card was

slightly more extensive, but included a section saying, “I love my mom because she got a toy out from the car after I left it in there by mistake.” I clearly remembered that incident. It was bedtime, and my husband was out of town. After hours of stalling and requests for water, stories and snacks, I was done. Done. My daughter was upset because she left her favorite stuffed bear in the car and said she wouldn’t be able to fall asleep without it.

The thought of having to go downstairs, open up the garage, unlock the car and locate the missing toy (and all of its associated garments) was about to send me over the edge. But I paused for a moment and saw the situation from her perspective. She missed her stuffed animal and wanted it for reassurance and comfort. She had no ability to go to the car and accomplish this herself, the way she could choose her own book or go

sive, but cause om the here rly ncident. d my town ng stories one. r was eft her r ouldn’t without it. aving pen up the car ing ated ut to dge.But ent and om missed her d comfor o go lish this e could okorgo

Enjoy the precious moments, they are soon gone.

MONISHA VASA, M.D.

downstairs to get her own glass of water. So, I set my frustration aside, and I did it. I had no idea that weeks later, this would be her example on a Mother’s Day card of what she appreciated most about me.

I think on a moment-tomoment basis, our kids love receiving gifts or being spoiled with treats. But when it comes down to it, they value our time and presence the most. They value time spent doing activities together, whether its reading, going for a walk or driving back and forth from school. But, I am not sure the choice of activity matters. For a child, I think being in the presence of an adult who loves and treasures the little person

A WISE INVESTMENT

next to them is invaluable.

I am painfully aware that spending time with me won’t always be number one on my kids’ priority list. Already, my daughter prefers to close the door to her bedroom and read alone, rather than next to me in the kitchen or family room. My son is starting to ask about sleeping over at his friends’ homes. They will grow up in front of our very eyes, so gradually that we will wake up one day and not realize when our little ones became grown, adult beings. We

who is mid-tantrum at Target, the present moment is not so wonderful. The last thing we want to do is immerse ourselves in it. In those moments, we can be aware that being a parent is not always roses and rainbows, but that there are also moments of difficulty and sacrifice and moments where our deepest emotional reserves become depleted. But if we can find a sliver of gratitude, even the tiniest bit, or an iota of compassion for ourselves and our children, we can

will wonder where the time went, and where we were when it passed us by. We will miss the requests for one more story or snack before bed.

When we speak of mindful parenting, we speak of being aware of the present moment. Sometimes, when you are exhausted and have a screaming, sleepdeprived, hungry child

create a space. We can create a space to step back and observe the child in front of us, the parent within us, and all of the mixed beauty and frustration that can accompany that journey we embark on together. We also create a space to realize that, thankfully, this moment won’t last forever...and, at the same time, tragically, this moment won’t last forever.

• Teens whose parents are home with them after school and in the evening are less likely to experience emotional distress.

• Teens who frequently eat dinner with their parents are less likely to engage in substance abuse.

• Youths who have close relationships with their parents are less likely to become violent.

• Adolescents whose parents are heavily involved in their lives exhibit fewer behavioral problems.

• Children display better academic performance when parents are involved in their lives.

SOURCE: familyfacts.org/briefs/15/a-wise-investment-benefits-from-families-spending-time-together

What do children want? They want time with you…They want your undivided attention.

— The Natural Child Project

MENCOURAGE SPIRIT

MISTER, TEAR DOWN THAT WALL

WRITER: MONISHA VASA, M.D.

You are gainfully employed and live in a nice home. Sharing that home with you is a beautiful, loving wife and two children who are excelling in school and sports. You’re blessed with a great circle of friends and socialize with them regularly.

In recent months, though, things have spiraled out of control. Your 75-year-old mother suffered a crippling stroke. The company where you’ve been employed for 17 years is considering laying off a dozen workers, and you fear your job is in jeopardy. You wonder if Mom should be in a nursing home or if she should move in with your family. And you worry whether you’ll be able to pay the bills in a few months.

Pressure, stress and anxiety begin mounting. How will you address this? If you’re a man, you will likely fail to communicate your worries and concerns to family members, friends and counselors. Men have a wall—it’s called pride. That wall contains five feet of concrete and 10 layers of steel. We protect this wall to protect pride; that’s how we’re built and wired.

Where men commonly fail is in not being able to communicate their problems effectively. We carry burdens on our shoulders, and at some point the burden becomes too much and we break down. Men need to have an effective outlet to deal with adversity in life.

The key is finding the proper coping mechanism for you. I regularly visit a life coach who clinically and professionally gives me advice on how to handle certain issues. For me, it feels wonderful to openly discuss my problems. Every man

• Call local churches and find out whether they have a life coach or other licensed professional counselor. Perhaps you can talk to several life coaches or professionals before sticking with one who makes you

the most comfortable.

• Ask around and see if there are local men’s groups. Maybe you’ll make a friend or two who are experiencing similar problems. You can openly share

needs an outlet to deal with problems. Here are some ideas you can explore:

your problems and formulate solutions.

• Find a golf group that meets on Saturdays. You can always chitchat with someone while riding on the golf cart.

• Simply take a walk in the woods and reflect on everything that’s troubling you. Getting away from our usual surroundings and enjoying new scenery can be healing.

For most of your adulthood, life has been one smooth ride.

• Cardiac Consultation

• Surigcal Cardiac Clearance

• Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment and Disease Preventions

• Cardiac Catheterazation Angioplasty and Stenting

• Echocardiogram

• Carotid Artery Blockage Treatment with Stents

• Coronary Artery Disease (clogging of the heart arteries)

• Peripheral Vascular Disease (poor circulation of lower legs and arms)

• Enhanced External Counterpulsation Therapy (EECP)

• Cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle)

• Nuclear Stress Test

• INR Testing

• Monitoring (Holter/Event)

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

• Pacemaker/ICD Checks

• Vascular Evaluation

• Vein Consultation

When it comes to orthopaedic procedures as complex as total ankle replacements, reverse shoulder replacement and joint replacements of the hip and knee, why trust anyone besides a specialist?

Our board certified orthopaedic surgeons are specialists who are fellowship trained in their areas of expertise. They are known for their advanced skill, training and experience. It’s their names you will find scrawled on referral notes from physicians from across the state or featured on the front covers of a surgeon’s training manual. From conservative care for sports injuries to advanced ankle, shoulder, hip and knee replacements, trust the specialists trusted by other surgeons.

FINANCE

DID YOU KNOW?

According to the Federal Reserve, the total outstanding consumer credit card debt in the U.S. (as of January 2015) is $887.9 billion.

FUN FACTOID:

The first general credit cards were made from paper and had a limit of $300.

PHOTO: Shutterstock.com

CREDIT CARDS

UNDERSTANDING CREDIT CARD COST AND CHARGES

Choosing a credit card, particularly if you have never had one, can be daunting. You’ll be faced with a huge number of options. There are credit cards primarily aimed toward those seeking to manage debt; those ideal for low-interest purchases; others best-suited for use abroad.

INTEREST RATES

These can be confusing since there are different interest rates for different transactions. The most commonly specified interest rate is the one on purchases. Rates also tend to be different for withdrawals and similar transactions and for balance transfers. Some credit cards offer interest-free periods on either purchases, balance transfers or both. Interest rates are quoted in annual percentage rate (APR). This is the amount you’ll need to pay to borrow the money. But you’ll also need to take into account compounding interest, that is, interest you pay on the interest itself.

WITHDRAWAL FEES

Credit cards rarely are suitable for withdrawing cash, due to rates for such transactions being significantly higher. Also, the interest usually is charged from the moment you withdraw the money, unlike purchases, when you’ll get a month or more of interest-free credit. Additionally, you may have to pay a cash-handling fee for withdrawals. The same rules generally apply to any other cash advances, such as foreign currency conversions. For such transactions, stick to your debit card.

BALANCE TRANSFER CHARGES

This refers to transferring the money you owe on one credit card to another. It’s done to take advantage of lower interest rates. Many credit card deals offer interest-free balance transfers, which allow customers to avoid paying interest on debts for a certain duration of time. The very best balance transfers offer up to 30 months interestfree. But such credit cards often don’t provide the best rates on purchases and other transactions. Also, remember such credit cards charge a fee for transferring the balance. Generally, the longer the interest-free period, the higher the fee will be. Balance transfer charges are a one-time fee that is a percentage of the amount of money being transferred.

LATE PAYMENT FEES

Credit cards have minimum monthly repayments, typically around 5 percent. While you should get into the habit of paying off as much of the debt as you can at the end of each billing period to avoid racking up interest, you should always be sure to pay at least the minimum, and on time. Late payments usually incur additional charges, and they can also reflect badly on your credit rating. To avoid late payments, set up a direct debit so the payments are made automatically and on time. If you prefer to pay your credit card bills manually, be sure to allow plenty of time for the transaction to complete.

FOREIGN USAGE FEES

Most credit card providers charge additional fees when you use a credit card abroad, at least a commission charge. You’ll also need to take into account the exchange rate. Do not take for granted the exchange rates you see on currency converter websites — the banks all have their own exchange rates that are never as attractive as the official ones. Finally, withdrawing cash on a credit card abroad usually is a particularly bad idea. Most credit card companies charge you a foreign transaction fee in addition to the cash advance fee. On top of that, you’ll probably not be getting a good exchange rate. If you want to use a credit card abroad, it is a good idea to get one specifically designed for that purpose.

ASK DAVE

MAKING A NEST EGG

How real people save for retirement

WRITER: DAVE RAMSEY

You’ve heard a lot about most Americans being behind in saving for retirement, but we don’t often hear many solutions that the average family actually can afford. That’s how we landed on a $300 a month figure. It’s a challenging number, since few of us can find an extra $300 a month without some effort and sacrifice. But it’s doable, and it’s enough to make a real difference in your nest egg by retirement.

1. Deal With Realities and Control Your Emotions

A lot of folks are debating whether or not they’ll ever be able to squeeze anything out of their budgets for retirement savings. We get it. One of the main reasons people hesitate to save for retirement is that they’re focused on meeting day-to-day obligations.

Christina is a mom of five kids in Alexandria, Virginia. Two of her children have special needs, so she knows what it’s like to be wary of “spending” money on retirement savings.

“It’s been hard to save for retirement because I always feel like I need to have more money in the bank since we don’t know what’s

coming with the kids,” she said. “But I know that if we don’t save now, we won’t be able to take care of ourselves in the future, let alone them if they need it.”

So she and her husband have made retirement savings their priority. They’re debt-free, have an emergency fund and watch expenses like a hawk. They’ve also come to the tough, but correct, decision to save for their retirement instead of building up a college fund for their children.

“We feel that the best gift we can give our children is a strong work ethic, good money sense and not having to care for us when we get old,” she said.

2. Refine Your Budget and Work Toward Your Goal Over Time

Making up your mind to put retirement savings at the top of your to-do list is just the first step. Now you actually have to find the money. Dave Ramsey, along with many retirement experts, recommends you invest 15 percent of your income just for retirement. That can sound like a huge chunk of cash, especially if your budget is so tight it squeaks.

When Katie quit work to stay home with her kids, her family in Mason City, Illinois, had to learn to live on just one income. After such a drastic cut, they had to face the fact they could not afford to put away 15 percent of her husband’s income for retirement. But they didn’t stop investing just because they couldn’t reach the 15 percent goal.

“We were just doing as much as we could,” Katie explained. “However, each month we were able to tweak the budget a little more — stuff like changing his W-4 and our cell phone package. Now, we can afford 15 percent for retirement, contribute to college funds and increase our fun money.”

Judy from Spring Branch, Texas, started her retirement savings plan nearly 20 years ago by contribut-

ing just three percent of her salary. Then, each year she received a bonus, she diverted most of it to her 401(k), and every time she received a raise, she put a third of that into her 401(k), as well.

“It did not take long to max out my 401(k),” Judy said. “At age 51, my husband and I have two kids in college with the costs completely funded. We are at the point of severe wealth building, and our giving has increased significantly. It’s a great feeling to know that I could retire at age 60 if I choose.”

3. Let Go of Past Regrets

This is where many people are stuck. They see saving for retirement as a mountain that’s too large to climb after a certain point in their lives. They give up before they even begin.

If you’re overwhelmed by the prospect of building a nest egg at the 11th hour, go back to the first step and separate your realities from your emotions. One of the best ways to do that is to get all the facts. Where do you really stand now, and where could you be if you started saving with gazelle intensity?

*Used with permission from Ramsey Solutions. For more information, visit www.daveramsey.com.

FAST FACTS

• Fewer than half of Americans have calculated how much they need for retirement.

• In 2012, 30 percent of private industry workers with access to a defined contribution plan (such as a 401k) did not participate.

• The average American spends 20 years in retirement.

• Americans 55 and older now account for 20 percent of all bankruptcies.

• Sixty-three percent of people who begin working at age 25 end up being financially dependent on either Social Security or on friends, family and charity.

Your partners for life

Samuel J. Goss, D.O., FACC, is one of our invasive cardiologists at Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County. He specializes in cardiovascular disease, and performs various procedures in the diagnosing and treatment of heart disease, such as Diagnostic Catheterizations, Nuclear Stress Testing, Cardiac P.E.T. and Echo-cardiography. He is one of 6 cardiologists on our staff performing Targeted Endovenous Therapy, a radio-frequency ablation procedure for the treatment of varicose veins.

As one of the oldest and most experienced private cardiology practices in Central Florida, at Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County, we are dedicated to bringing innovation in cardiovascular care to our patients. Since 1992, we have been your partners for life.

MAY 5, 13 & 19

Medicare Matters

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) volunteer counselors answer questions about Medicare open enrollment. Leesburg Public Library, Study Room 2, 100 E. Main St., Leesburg. 10 a.m-12 p.m.

MAY 6

Mom’s Morning Out

New moms discuss babies, breast-feeding and parenting every Wednesday morning. South Lake Hospital Centre for Women’s Health, 1900 Don Wickham Dr., Clermont. 10 a.m.12 p.m. No registration required. $5 per session. Information: 352.241.7109

MAY 6 & 20

Diabetes SelfManagement Support Group

Sessions by Certified Diabetes Educator Debra Dudley. Anyone with a diagnosis of diabetes or pre-diabetes is welcome to attend. Conroy CREATION Health Center at Florida Hospital Waterman, 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares, 5-6 p.m. No fee. Information: 352.253.3685.

MAY 7

Webinar: Credit: Myths and Realities

Online seminar will discuss cost-effective strategies for using credit, evaluating loans and credit scores. 12-1 p.m. at lake.ifas.ufl.

edu. To register, visit bit. ly/realcred. Information: 352.343.4101, ext. 2721

MAY 7

Stroke Support Group

The group promotes wellness by helping members make difficult decisions, problem-solving and locating local resources. Free session. Leesburg

Regional Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Hospital, third floor, 700 Palmetto St., Leesburg. 2:30 p.m.

Information: 352.323.5658

MAY 9

March of Dimes March for Babies Event

Registration begins at 7 a.m. The walk begins at 8 a.m. on the Leesburg

Regional Medical Center’s wellness trail and moves through downtown Leesburg. Proceeds benefit local families in need.

Information: 352.942.3780

MAY 9, 16, 23 & 30

Ladies Only Self Defense

Instruction by North American Grappling Association Pan American Champion and Undefeated BJJ Black Belt Brian Russcio. Grappling Mastery, 19051 Highway 441, Mount Dora. 10-11 a.m. Free.

MAY 11

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Emotional support and education for Parkinson patients and their families.

Conroy CREATION Health Center Florida Hospital

Waterman, 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares, 1-2:30 p.m.

MAY 12

Better Breathers

The group facilitates conversation about chronic lung disease. Free. No registration necessary.

National Training Center, Education Department, 1935 Don Wickham

Dr., Clermont. 1-3 p.m.

Information: 352.241.7109

MAY 14

Depression Discussion

Dr. David Frerking of Tavares Health and Wellness Center discusses depression with teens and adults. Leesburg Public Library, Meeting Room B, Leesburg Public Library. 6-7 p.m.

MAY 14

Breast Cancer Support Group

South Lake Hospital and Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation support group. National Training Center, Education Department, 1935 Don Wickham

Dr., Clermont. Free. No registration. 7-9 p.m. at

Information: 352.227.4410

MAY 20

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group

National Multiple Sclerosis Society support group. Free. No registration. National Training Center, Education Department, 1935 Don Wickham Dr., Clermont, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Information: 352.242.2350

MAY 25

Amputee Support Group

Waterman Amputee & Limb Loss Konnections. For amputees and people with limb loss. Mattison Conference Room B Florida Hospital Waterman, 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares, 6-7 p.m.

TREATING CANCER WITH EXPERT CARE

InterCommunity Cancer Center has come together for coordinated cancer care at a single location in our Lady Lake, Florida, facility. Leading Radiation Oncologist Dr. Herman Flink, has cared for patients in the Leesburg community for several decades and will continue to provide cancer care at the Lady Lake location, just a few minutes from Leesburg. Coming together at one location allows us to provide even more options for advanced technology to you, our patients. InterCommunity Cancer Center will continue to provide evidence-based, radiation therapy treatment ensuring the use of best practice guidelines in our patients’ cancer treatment. Together we can provide powerful outcomes for you.

Quality, Personalized Cancer Care In Our Community

922 Rolling Acres Road | Lady Lake, FL 32159 855.403.2519

www.icccvantage.com

Dr. Herman Flink Radiation Oncologist Double Board-Certified in both Radiation Oncology and Radiology by The American Board of Radiology

CHINA CHASE

In celebration of its one-year anniversary, Harbor Chase of Villages Crossing held a Chinese New Year party. More than 100 residents, family members and guests attended the fun-filled event, which included live entertainment, Chinese music and cuisine, drinks and a floating lantern celebration. Harbor Chase offers assisted living and a memory care unit.

PHOTOGRAPHER: RON VANDEVANDER

1. Nancy Nash, Harriet DeRevere and Pat Alma

2. Nancy Smucker and Joan Mercado

3. Kim Lewis, Jill Romie and Dora Barber

4. Carol Zwicklbauer

5. Janis Price and Bobbie McCarty

6. Mary Cavanagh

7. Juergen and Eugenia Kaufmann

8. Chuck and Jean Houser

9. Liz and Bob Spears with Joe Balok

A HEART FOR CHILDREN

Kids Central, Inc. recently held an event called “Open Your Heart” to recruit potential foster parents. The event, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Leesburg, allowed attendees to learn more about foster parenting and adoption.

PHOTOGRAPHER: MATTHEW GAULIN

1. Matthew Laughrey and Jim Scott

2. Matthew, Janna, Avalon, Micah and Ezra Bartoli with Vincent and Sage Oravits and Gabby Bowen

3. Raeann Bacchus and Shalanda Mchenry Sims

4. Sharon Musch and Barbra Bove

5. Ashley and Johnathan Kennen with Rachel Brown

6. Timothy, logan, and Gage

7. Jack and Joy Foreman

8. Rosey Moreno-Jones

9. Ethan and Aaron Johnson

10. Dounia Dacius and William Caliate

Delivering Comfort Joy Safety Privacy

Waiting for and welcoming a new arrival is a milestone for every family. Florida Hospital Waterman now makes the experience even more exciting with our new and improved Center for Women & Children. Our remodeled and upgraded private rooms now feature refrigerators and free Wi-Fi, and are sized to allow family members to celebrate with mom and dad. There are prenatal, lactation and other specialty courses to prepare you for the big event, and mom and dad enjoy a gourmet meal the night before returning home. Visit FHWaterman.com to view a tour of the new center and to sign up for classes.